Some candidates look to spending more to boost security, while others believe in creating and supporting strong partnerships with local law enforcement

The deadly shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., have spurred much political debate and media attention on school safety and gun control. East Pennsboro Area School District does not have a school resource officer.

Should the district have a school resource officer in its schools? What steps do you think the East Pennsboro Area School Board should take to make schools safer?

Melissa Beers

“Student safety is a top priority. Schools should be viewed as safe environments where a student does not have to worry about being harmed. I think student and staff education and safety drills should continue to be a priority. Giving students and staff knowledge to know what to do in the event of a scenario like Sandy Hook gives them the power to have control over their safety. Schools should never be a place where students and employees feel unsafe. I also think that a continued good relationship with the township police department, fire departments and first responders is imperative to maintain a safe environment.”

Janene Bendrick

“We should not hire another administrator and bloat the district’s budget. We have great existing school safety resources, staff and administrators to carry out the duties of a school resource officer. We should work together with the township police chief, security officers (who) work at our athletic events, and school employees to help fashion a comprehensive school safety plan at no cost to the taxpayers.”

Matt Franchak

“Student safety is a very important issue and one we need to examine. I do not believe you solve this issue by hiring another administrator. Instead, let’s use the talent we already have in our community. The school district has excellent administrators and principals (who) should be able to handle the duties of a school resource officer. Additionally, I recommend that we form a nine- or 11-member school safety committee composed of the township chief of police, the fire chief, the superintendent, principals, teachers and members of the school board and community with expertise in school safety. Together, we can figure out the best way to use our existing resources to improve school safety.”

Patrick Wentz

“When tragic events take over the headlines, the School Board must look at all avenues to keep our children safe, but we must comply with any State mandate too.”

Rob Copeland, Kimberly Grundon and Tami Mistretta did not respond to this question.

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